The most common strengths of e-liquid are 0mg , 3mg , 6mg , 12mg , 18mg and 20mg . This may also be expressed as 0 %, 0.3 %, 0.6 %, 1.2 %, 1.8 % and 2 %. For all European countries , which are subject to TPD regulations , 20mg ( 2 %) is the maximum legal nicotine concentration in e-liquids .
The first step to finding a suitable nicotine strength is making an honest assessment of how many cigarettes you smoke on a daily ( or weekly ) basis . Remember , the goal is to stop smoking cigarettes , so starting high with nicotine strength and slowly tapering down is a valid approach .
Here is a rough guide to the level of nicotine you should try to start with :
CIGARETTES SMOKED PER DAY
NICOTINE STRENGTH ( MG / ML )
1-5 6mg ( 0.6 %)
5-10 12mg ( 1.2 %)
10-15 18mg ( 1.8 %)
15 + 20mg ( 2 %)
Of course , this is only an estimate , and everyone is different . If you find that a higher strength , such as 18mg / ml is satisfying your cravings but is too harsh to be used as a cessation tool , then you can step the nicotine down to 12mg / ml . This may result in more frequent vaping in order to achieve the same dose but that should not be a concern if it is helping you quit smoking .
If you are an infrequent or “ social ” smoker , then starting lower at 6mg / ml is a better option , since this dose will still provide some nicotine satisfaction but should not encourage you to get used to a higher dose .
Ultimately , even with a rough idea of what should be a good starting point , the best way to find a suitable nicotine strength is trial and error . Some heavy smokers may be perfectly satisfied by 6mg / ml e-liquids , while other light smokers may require an 18mg / ml nicotine to stay away from cigarettes . The goal is to stop smoking and the “ right ” nicotine strength is the one that helps you achieve this .
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